Lift Device Obstacle Detection via Sensor Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerial work platforms, such as scissor lifts, lack effective obstacle detection systems to prevent collisions with obstacles, leading to potential accidents and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a proximity sensor system and a controller that provides alerts and restricts operations based on obstacle detection data, using ultrasonic and lidar sensors to define warning and stop zones around the lift device, ensuring safe operation by preventing collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no obstacle detection system is used, then the device complexity is low, but the safety and reliability are poor leading to potential accidents
Solution Approach 1:
The obstacle detection system is segmented into multiple proximity sensors positioned at different locations on the platform, each detecting obstacles in specific zones. The controller divides the detection area into warning zones and stop zones, processing sensor data separately for each zone to determine appropriate responses.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the proximity sensors and the lift device operations. It receives obstacle detection data from sensors, processes the information, and generates control signals to either alert operators or restrict device movements, mediating between detection and action.
2Reliability
If obstacle detection and restriction systems are implemented, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The proximity sensors serve multiple functions: detecting obstacles in warning zones to trigger alerts and detecting obstacles in stop zones to restrict device movements. The controller universally processes data from all sensors to determine both alert and restriction responses, making the system multi-functional despite added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection and classification of obstacles before actual collision occurs. By identifying obstacles in warning zones in advance and issuing alerts, and by detecting obstacles in stop zones before movement continues, the system takes preliminary actions to prevent accidents.
3Measurement precision
If multiple proximity sensors are used to define warning and stop zones, then measurement precision of obstacle position is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection space is segmented into distinct warning zones and stop zones using multiple proximity sensors positioned at different locations. Each sensor monitors specific zones, and the controller processes data from individual sensors to determine obstacle position and appropriate response, achieving precise spatial measurement through segmentation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances safety by preventing collisions with obstacles and optimizing operational efficiency by restricting lift device movements when obstacles are detected within defined zones.
Implementation Method 1
The first set of proximity sensors are coupled to the platform and are configured to detect a distance of an obstacle relative to a portion of the platform
Implementation Method 2
The second set of proximity sensors are coupled to the platform. One or more of the second set of proximity sensors are oriented along a longitudinal axis of the platform or in a direction at least partially upwards
Data Source
AI summary
A lift device includes a chassis, tractive elements, a platform, a lift assembly, a first set of proximity sensors, and a controller. The tractive elements are rotatably coupled to the chassis and support the chassis. The platform is disposed above the chassis and includes a deck for supporting an operator. The lift assembly couples the platform to the chassis and can selectably move the platform between a lowered position and a raised position. The first set of proximity sensors are coupled to the platform and detect a distance of an obstacle relative to the platform. The controller is operably coupled with an alert system and receives obstacle detection data from the first set of proximity sensors. The controller selects a subset of the first set of proximity sensors to analyze based on an active function of the lift device and determines whether the obstacle is within the minimum allowable distance.